Description
This Irresistibly Juicy Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger combines ground chicken with smoky chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, bold spices, and a touch of lime for brightness. Each burger patty is perfectly seasoned and juicy, served on toasted buns with fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, red onion, and pickled jalapeños. Optional pepper jack cheese adds an extra layer of creamy heat, making this burger a delicious, flavorful twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Patties
- 1 pound Ground Chicken (Use a mix of dark and white meat for juiciness.)
- 2 tablespoons Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce (Adjust for your spice preference.)
- 2 tablespoons Adobo Sauce
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 tablespoon Lime Juice (Brightens the flavors.)
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (or Panko) (Opt for panko for extra crunch.)
- 1 large Egg (Serves as a binding agent.)
For the Chipotle Mayo
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute.)
- 1 chipotle pepper, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Lime Juice (Enhances tanginess.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- Pinch Salt
To Assemble
- 4 Burger Buns (Toasted for better texture.)
- Fresh Toppings (Lettuce, Tomatoes, Red Onions, Pickled Jalapeños)
- Cheese (optional) (Slices of pepper jack)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, additional adobo sauce, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, lime juice, breadcrumbs, and the egg. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, taking care not to overwork the meat to keep the patties tender.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a round, evenly thick patty about 3/4 inch thick. Press a slight indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly and avoid puffing up.
- Make the Chipotle Mayo: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise with the chopped chipotle pepper, lime juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use to let the flavors meld.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the pan and place the patties carefully. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the patties are nicely browned and cooked through. If using cheese, add a slice of pepper jack on top of each patty during the last minute of cooking to melt slightly.
- Toast the Buns: While the patties cook, toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster until golden and slightly crispy for better texture and flavor.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread a generous layer of the chipotle mayo on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place the cooked chicken patty on top, then add fresh toppings such as crisp lettuce, sliced tomatoes, red onions, and pickled jalapeños. Cover with the top bun.
- Serve: Serve the spicy chipotle chicken burgers immediately while hot and juicy with your choice of side dishes, such as fries or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Use a mix of dark and white ground chicken meat for juicier patties.
- Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers according to your preferred spice level.
- Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Greek yogurt can be substituted for mayonnaise in the chipotle mayo for a healthier alternative.
- Pressing a slight indentation in the center of each patty helps prevent it from puffing up during cooking.
- Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken patties reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Toasting the buns adds a delightful crunch and prevents sogginess from the condiments.
